The clients wanted to create a contemporary family home within the garden grounds of Birchwood House in Livingston Village, allowing them to remain connected to a property and landscape they had carefully nurtured over many years. The new home needed to support accessible, single-storey living while providing flexibility for visiting family and changing needs in later life. As the site sits within a conservation setting surrounded by mature trees, the design also had to respond sensitively to its historic context and natural environment.

Mill Architects designed a bespoke home that balances modern living with a deep respect for its surroundings. We carefully positioned the building within the existing garden to protect significant mature trees and preserve the established landscape, informed by detailed arboricultural studies. Working closely with the clients throughout the design process, we developed a home that prioritises accessibility, sustainability and long-term adaptability while ensuring the architecture complements the character of Livingston Village.

The completed home is a contemporary interpretation of the traditional forms and materials found within the conservation area. A simple pitched roof with a lean-to element, natural slate, timber cladding, stone and lead detailing creates a building that feels both modern and firmly rooted in its setting.

Internally, the layout is centred around open, light-filled living spaces that connect directly with the garden through generous south west-facing glazing. The design provides comfortable single-storey day-to-day living, with additional accommodation at first-floor level for family and guests, ensuring the home can evolve with the owners' needs over time.

Environmental performance was considered throughout the project. The highly insulated timber frame construction is complemented by solar panels, an air source heat pump and underfloor heating, creating an energy-efficient home designed for long-term occupation. Sensitive landscaping and biodiversity enhancements further strengthen the relationship between the building and its surroundings, demonstrating how contemporary architecture can sit comfortably within a historic landscape while supporting modern family living.